Insect Pests

For more information, e-mail us or call (360) 902-2070.

If you have a question about a particular home or garden insect pest not listed on this page, contact your Washington State University county extension office at: 

Find your WSU county extension office

What is the purpose of WSDA's insect pest program?

The purpose of our insect pest program is to prevent the establishment and spread of a selected group of non-native insect that are known threats to Washington State's agricultural products and environmental resources.

What are non-native insect pests?

Non-native insects are those introduced into Washington State from outside their native range or natural habitat.

Why control non-native insect pests?

Non-native insects are estimated to cost the U.S. $137 billion in crop damage and control each year. Changes in foreign trade practices and our increasingly mobile society have increased the rate at which non-native species are being introduced into the U.S. and Washington State each year.

Are other states also trying to control non-native insects?

Yes.  Many insects classified as pests in the state of Washington are also pests in other states, Canada and Mexico as well.  Any successful establishment of an insect pest in our state is cause for concern throughout North America.

How do non-native insects get introduced into Washington State?

Solid wood pallets and packing material, unprocessed logs, nursery stock and attachment to cars, trucks, airplanes and ships are pathways through which non-native insects arrive into the state each year.

What insect pests are included in WSDA's program?

The Japanese beetle, apple maggot, gypsy moth, and other non-native wood boring insects.

How does WSDA control non-native insect pests?

• Early Detection.  WSDA staff, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, conducts annual statewide surveys to detect the introduction of non-native insects and locate areas of potential infestation. Such efforts represent an early warning system for the introduction of potentially damaging insects into Washington State.

• Rapid Response.  When surveys indicate a particular pest is reaching threatening levels, WSDA establishes quarantines to prevent the spread of the insect into new locations, and initiates efforts to eradicate the insect using methods in compliance with state and federal environmental regulations. WSDA also issues pest free certification to insure that nursery and farm products can continue to be exported outside our state.

Who benefits from WSDA's insect pest program?

The State's Economy.  WSDA's insect control program protects our forests, farms and nurseries from potentially damaging insects.

Homeowners.  Insects like gypsy moth and Japanese beetle are a nuisance to homeowners and despoil gardens and backyards.

The Environment.  Insect pests defoliate and kill trees over extensive areas of forests. Control of these pests protects habitat for fish and wildlife, and helps preserve Washington's natural scenic beauty.

Recreation.  By preventing insect pests from infesting our national, state and county parks, residents can continue to enjoy our states many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Please check the links on this page for more detailed information on WSDA monitoring and eradication activities on specific insect pests.

Administration

PO Box 42560
Olympia, WA  98504-2560
Phone: (360) 902-2070
Fax: (360) 902-2094
PestProgram@agr.wa.gov

Dr. Brad White, Pest Program Manager

• Apple Maggot
  21 North 1st Ave., Suite 103
  Yakima, WA  98902
  Phone: (509) 249-6966
  Fax: (509) 454-7858
  

• Asian Longhorned Beetle
  Gypsy Moth
  Japanese Beetle
  3939 Cleveland Ave.
  Olympia, WA  98501
  Phone: (800) 443-6684
  Phone: (360) 586-8489 (GM)
  Fax: (360) 586-8509
  

• Exotic Pest Detection
  PO Box 42560
  Olympia, WA  98504-2560
  Phone: (360) 902-2063
  Fax: (360) 902-2094

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